Portrait of Prince Khurram (Shah Jahan)
first quarter 17th century
For years it was believed that this portrait showed Emperor Jahangir himself, but recent research identifies the sitter as Jahangir’s son and successor, Prince Khurram, the man who would become the supreme Mughal leader Shah Jahan. Architect of the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan was both protégé and upstart, a source of pride and, later, rivalry for his father.
Ink, opaque watercolor and gold on paper
9 5/8 x 5 5/8in. (24.4 x 14.3cm)
Overall: 17 1/2 x 12 1/8in. (44.5 x 30.8cm)
Thomas D. Stimson Memorial Collection, gift of Mrs. Charles Mosely Clark
44.650